Pleurisy

Definition

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura, the double-layered membrane that surrounds each lung and the rib cage. The pleura protects and lubricates the surface of the lungs as they inflate and deflate within the rib cage. When they become inflamed, the diseased surfaces rub painfully together.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The pain associated with pleurisy can be enough to diagnose the condition. A stethoscope will be used to listen for abnormal chest sounds, such as a friction rub or pneumonia sounds. The next step is determining the illness that caused the pleurisy.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pleurisy. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Pain Management

Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and anti-inflammatories, are used to treat the pain. Anti-inflammatories may also relieve symptoms related to inflammation. Some people can reduce their pain by lying on the painful side, holding a pillow tightly, or wrapping the chest with elastic bandages. Codeine-based cough syrup may be prescribed to treat a painful cough if it is safe to do so.

Treating the Source of Pleurisy

If pleurisy is the result of a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If it is the result of a viral infection, the virus will get better naturally.
If the cause is due to an autoimmune disease such as
SLE,
then steroid treatment will relieve pain.
Pulmonary embolism or pneumothorax may be treated by surgery.

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting pleurisy, take the following steps:

Seek early medical attention for conditions that can cause pleurisy.

Ask your doctor if you should get a
pneumonia vaccine
and the flu shot, especially if you are elderly, have a chronic illness, or weakened immunity.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What causes pleurisy and other pleural disorders? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/pleurisy/causes.html. Updated September 21, 2011. Accessed February 22, 2017.